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Marshfield adopts zoning changes to enable infill development on narrow lots
Summary
Ordinance 15-28 relaxes setbacks, lot-depth and coverage rules in SR-4 and SR-6 districts to permit rebuilding and infill on smaller residential lots, part of an effort to address a shortage of smaller, affordable housing options.
The Marshfield Common Council adopted Ordinance 15-28 at second reading on March 11, changing the municipal code for SR-4 and SR-6 residential districts to relax minimum setbacks, lot-area, lot-depth and maximum building-coverage standards. City staff said the changes will make it possible to rebuild or develop homes on narrow or “infield” lots that previously could not meet dimensional standards.
City Administrator Steve Barr told the council the code as written sometimes prevents rebuilding on narrow lots — for example, a 44-foot-wide lot could be impossible to redevelop under the current setbacks and lot-coverage rules. The amendments are targeted to scattered small lots in existing neighborhoods and are intended to allow housing that fits the surrounding area.
Councilors praised the change as a practical tool to add housing stock. A motion to adopt the ordinance was made by Alderman Tompkins and seconded by Alderman Moran; the measure passed at the meeting.
Staff said the ordinance is expected to help owners of smaller lots and local builders by clarifying development options and recommended outreach to realtors and property owners to publicize the code change.
